By Xinyi Li, EDITOR

Chongqing is widely known as a city boasting excellent stargazing areas. On a cool summer night, you might as well take a tent and go outside to stare up at the starry sky while listening to the chirping and croaking.

Tieshanping Forest Park in Jiangbei District

Tieshanping Forest Park, one of the leading natural parks in Chongqing’s suburb, is a popular stargazing point in the main urban area. Whenever there is a special star image, there will be a lot of starry sky enthusiasts there. With high visibility when it’s clear, the park is suitable for weekend leisure or a night stroll.

Gulou Town in Hechuan District

Gulou Town, situated in the northwest of Hechuan District, enjoys convenient transportation, pleasant scenery, and a little pollution by a hard light, making it an ideal place for star lovers and shutterbugs.

Fengsheng Ancient Town

Fengsheng Ancient Town is one of the border towns in Eastern Banan District. About 44 kilometers away from Jiefangbei CBD, it stands at the intersection of Banan, Fuling, and Nanchuan. With no mountains around, the Pingding Mountain next to the town is a good choice for watching stars because of its open view.

Baiyun Taoist Temple in Qijiang District

Located in Shijiao Town, Qijiang District, Baiyun Taoist Temple is 80 kilometers away from the main urban area. Compared with most areas of Chongqing, it has a higher altitude and less pollution. At night, there is only a little light from some farmhouses, which won’t cause severe light pollution, so that more stars are visible.

Mazui Village in Nanchuan District

Mazui Village lies in Sanquan Town of Nanchuan District. With flat but high mountain meadows and little city light, there are numerous stars at night. How romantic it is to pitch a tent and then look up at the starlit sky on the grass!

It’s convenient and safe enough for group camping or couple’s dating.

Stargazing tips:

1. Inspection of the camping area in advance is advised to ensure safety and easy transportation.
2. Choose flat and open areas but avoid the lakefront, for the moisture may damage your equipment.
3. Move less during observation, so as not to affect the fixation of equipment and the shooting effect.
4. It is recommended to use warm-toned lighting.
5. Bring enough clothes, food, and medicine.
6. Be cautious of snakes or bugs and the insurance for camping is advised.

Source: CQCB